● Harrisville Community Band
Harmony in Harrisville
in Harrisville
COMMUNITY BAND CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF MAKING MUSIC By Beckie Erwin • Photos by Vic and Sandra Karcher
The Harrisville Community Band is a cherished musical ensemble based in Harrisville, Pennsylvania, a small town in Butler County. As a central part of the local cultural scene, the band plays an important role in bringing music and community together.
The band is made up of musicians of all ages and skill levels, from youth to adults, united by their love of music. As a true community band, it operates largely through volunteer participation, welcoming anyone interested in performing, regardless of professional experience or training.
Current director is Jim Jaskowak of Jackson Center, Pennsylvania, a retired music educator from Grove City Area School District.
With a diverse repertoire ranging from concert band arrangements and classical pieces to popular songs and patriotic favorites, the band provides an outlet for live music that enhances the town’ s communal spirit. The band typically performs a range of musical genres, including concert band arrangements, popular tunes, classical music, and patriotic pieces. They often play at local events, parades, and festivals, providing live music for the community. Concerts include performances during local holidays, special events, and summer concert series.
Beyond entertainment, the band plays a vital role in preserving and promoting local culture.
Participation offers musicians an opportunity to connect with fellow performers, develop their skills, and contribute to the artistic life of
Harrisville. It serves as a creative outlet and a gathering point for the community.
Harrisville’ s community band shares the long-standing tradition of small-town Pennsylvania bands, many of which emerged in the early 20th century to unite residents through music. The band continues to serve as a cultural legacy, inspiring future generations of local musicians and fostering a sense of community pride.
Now celebrating its 60th year, two members, Judy Critchlow and Karen McKnight, have been with the band since the beginning.“ We both met our husbands at the first band performance which was an outside concert with a small square dance after,” Karen explained.“ Judy and her husband, Lynn, were dance partners and my husband, Ken, was
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